Ards and North Down

Portaferry Castle

This 16th century tower house in Portaferry is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Northern Ireland, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history.

Castle Ward

This beautiful Georgian mansion and estate in Strangford has been used as a filming location for the hit TV series "Game of Thrones", and offers visitors the chance to explore historic buildings, scenic gardens, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

WELCOME TO Ards and North Down

Province Overview

Main city

157,000

AREA

340 km²

POPULATION

Bangor

Main language

English

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Mount Stewart House and Gardens

Mount Stewart House and Gardens is a historic estate located in Northern Ireland, overlooking Strangford Lough. The property features extensive landscaped gardens, including a sunken garden, a lake walk, and a formal rose garden, as well as a stunning 18th-century house that has been beautifully restored and furnished.

Strangford Lough

Mount Stewart House and Gardens is an elegant 18th-century mansion located in Ards and North Down, Northern Ireland. The house boasts opulent interiors and the gardens are home to a wide variety of rare and exotic plants. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and marvel at the stunning vistas.

Bangor Castle

Bangor Castle is a 19th-century mansion located in the town of Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland. Built in the Tudor Revival style, it was originally the residence of the Hon. Robert Edward Ward and his family. Today, it serves as the headquarters for Ards and North Down Borough Council and is open to the public for guided tours and special events.

Political

Economy and Government

Ards and North Down is a prosperous and vibrant region in Northern Ireland with a diverse economy and stable government. The area has a strong agricultural sector, with dairy farming and horticulture being significant contributors to the local economy. Additionally, the area has a growing tourism industry, with attractions such as the seaside town of Bangor, the Strangford Lough Nature Reserve, and the National Trust's Mount Stewart Estate drawing visitors from both within and outside of Northern Ireland.

The local government of Ards and North Down is led by the Ards and North Down Borough Council, which oversees the provision of key services such as waste management, planning, and leisure facilities. The council is composed of elected representatives from the area's various political parties, and it works in partnership with local businesses and community groups to promote economic growth and social development.

The region's economy and government have also been impacted by wider political events, such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. Brexit has led to changes in trade and immigration policies, while the pandemic has brought challenges to the local economy and healthcare system. However, the resilience and adaptability of the region's economy and government have allowed them to weather these challenges and continue to thrive.

History

History and Culture

Ards and North Down has a rich and diverse history that has shaped its culture and heritage. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlement found in the form of ancient stone circles and burial mounds. Later, the region played a significant role in the development of Christianity in Ireland, with the establishment of monasteries such as Bangor Abbey in the 6th century.

During the medieval period, the area was ruled by the Anglo-Norman De Courcy family, who built numerous castles and fortifications throughout the region. The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of the linen industry in Ards and North Down, which brought wealth and prosperity to the region and left a lasting legacy in the form of impressive industrial architecture.

Today, the area's cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals and events, such as the Comber Potato Festival, which showcases the region's agricultural history and culinary traditions. The National Trust's Mount Stewart Estate also offers visitors a glimpse into the region's aristocratic past, with its impressive house and gardens.

Ards and North Down's vibrant cultural scene is also reflected in its many arts and cultural organizations, such as the Ards Arts Centre and the North Down Museum, which offer exhibitions, workshops, and performances throughout the year.

HOTELS

Culloden Estate and Spa

A luxurious 5-star hotel set in a grand 19th-century mansion overlooking Belfast Lough. It features elegant rooms and suites, award-winning dining options, and a tranquil spa with a range of treatments and facilities.

Slieve Donard Resort and Spa

A stunning 4-star hotel located in the picturesque seaside town of Newcastle. The hotel boasts stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and offers comfortable rooms, a range of dining options, and a world-class spa.

The Old Inn

A charming 4-star hotel situated in the quaint village of Crawfordsburn. The hotel has a rich history dating back to the 17th century and features cozy rooms, a traditional pub, and an award-winning restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine. The hotel is also ideally located for exploring the nearby countryside and coastline.

RESTAURANTS

The Boat House

A popular seafood restaurant located on the shores of Strangford Lough in Bangor. The restaurant serves fresh seafood caught daily from the lough and other local ingredients, and boasts stunning views of the water.

The Poacher's Pocket

A cozy gastropub located in the village of Lisbane. The restaurant serves a range of traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Old Schoolhouse Inn

A fine dining restaurant located in the village of Comber. The restaurant is set in a historic 19th-century schoolhouse and serves a variety of dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has won numerous awards for its food and service, and offers a unique dining experience in a charming setting.